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Small actions make big differences

Each November, National Addictions Awareness Week seeks to raise awareness about the impact addictions have on families, communities and individuals.

This month, Alberta Health Services is recognizing National Addictions Awareness Week Nov. 19-25 and its theme is “Small Actions Make Big Differences.” The week aims to raise awareness about issues related to substance abuse and problem gambling, and to highlight how individuals can take steps to ensure an addiction-free lifestyle for themselves and their families.

Another goal of the week is to celebrate the ability of individuals and communities which work together to support addiction awareness and addiction-free lifestyles. Addiction is a bit of an “elephant in the room”, a topic no one brings up or talks about. National Addictions Awareness Week aims to get people talking about addiction to help boost understanding about this disease.

Addiction is a hard habit to break and can often take control of a persons’ life. The habit can involve a myriad of things ranging from drugs, alcohol, gambling or tobacco. Risk factors for developing an addiction include:

• Family members with an addiction

• Poverty

• Stress

• Discrimination or oppression

• Abuse

• Friends who use drugs or alcohol or participate in the same activity such as gambling

Some factors that help protect adults and youth from addiction include:

• Having a positive role model

• Being involved in meaningful activities like sports, music, or school/community activities

• Having a strong connection to family, friends and community

• Having someone to talk to

Talking to youth about the risks of drug and alcohol use and listening and being supportive of their efforts to resist drinking or using drugs is another good way to prevent you child from using drugs. This can also help strengthen the parent/child bond and reduce their chance of using drugs.

Also, be a good role model. Don’t drink excessively or use drugs. Children of parents who use drugs, drink alcohol or gamble have a greater risk of addiction.

If you are worried about that a loved one may have an addiction please contact Alberta Health Services’ 24-hour Addiction Helpline at 1-866-332-2322, visit MyHealth.Alberta.ca or call HEALTHLink Alberta at 1-866-408-5465.